Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) announces plans to name its softball field in honor of long-time coach, faculty member, and friend, Susan F. Bowman. Sue's distinguished service to and support of the University, diligent and faithful service to the Lord, and commitment to advancing women's athletics prompted this prestigious honor.
"Few people have the career-long positive impact on a university and generations of its students the way Coach Sue Bowman shaped IWU athletics," said IWU President David Wright. "We are forever in her debt for the many ways she helped raise the standard of Christlike excellence among IWU's athletes, faculty, and administrators. It is a joy to honor her legacy in this way."
Professor Bowman taught physical education at IWU for 45 years. Women's athletics launched at the University in 1970, and for 42 years, 1970-2011, Sue served as Assistant Athletic Director and coached: 20 seasons of women's field hockey, six seasons of volleyball, women's tennis, and women's basketball; Sue assisted in coaching women's track and field and women's soccer.
"Coach Bowman was a leader to not only the women she coached but to so many throughout our department," notes IWU Director of Athletics, Deane Webb. "Her tireless work and service to both IWU and our department helped build the foundation on which all our programs are built. I am thankful we can honor her in a way that both honors her and encourages others in their lifetime service to God."
Sue, lovingly referred to by many as "Coach," became the head coach for IWU softball from its inauguration in 1988 and maintained that position for 24 years. Known for keeping a cold Diet Coke in hand while coaching and serving her Oreo Delight at Athletic Division parties, Sue's role on and off the diamond influenced generations of IWU student athletes.
Dr. Michael "Doc" Fratzke, retired IWU Athletic Director, wrote of Susan: "Her flexibility and stability helped guide the women's athletic program from the pioneer stage to the current level of success. She increasingly became desirous of seeing evangelism and discipleship in the entire program. I personally appreciated her candor, respectfulness, and wisdom as a co-worker in athletics and academics."
Sue was an active member of College Wesleyan Church and her local Grant County community. She also served on American Red Cross, YMCA, and Indiana Society for Health and Physical Education boards. Sue taught CPR, first aid and volunteered as a Kids Hope Mentor. Her favorite activities included scrapbooking, shopping, watching IWU sports, and loving on her cats.
In 2011, Sue was honored by the Grant County Sports Hall of Fame and was a member of the Inaugural Indiana Wesleyan University Hall of Honor class of 2017. The naming of the IWU softball field further recognizes the legacy she left on the IWU athletics department. Details of the upcoming naming ceremony to follow.